Minichiello
to have back surgery

|

Sydney Roosters fullback Anthony Minichiello will undergo surgery on his injured back today which is likely to rule him out of the the entire State of Origin series.

Minichiello and Sydney Roosters club doctor John Orchard consulted a leading back specialist yesterday who confirmed surgery was necessary for the Golden Boot player of the year's long term future. Minichiello will have a three-hour key hole operation to repair his herniated disc and will miss at least another eight weeks of football.

The incumbent Blues fullback joins a growing list of in doubt or unavailable NSW players which includes Andrew Johns, Trent Barrett, Ben Kennedy, Luke O'Donnell, Matt King and Jason Ryles.